Why Learning Format Matters for AI Upskilling
AI skills aren’t just technical—they require continual learning and hands-on practice. Choosing the right training format can determine how quickly and effectively your team adopts new tools and concepts. Two common approaches are microlearning and full-length courses.
What is Microlearning?
Microlearning delivers small, focused lessons that can be completed quickly—often in under 10 minutes. These might include:
- Short videos
- Interactive quizzes
- Flashcards or infographics
- Quick how-to guides
Pros of Microlearning:
- Time-efficient and fits into busy schedules
- Great for just-in-time learning (e.g., “how to use AI in Excel”)
- Reinforces retention with repetition and spacing
Cons:
- May lack depth for complex topics
- Not ideal for total beginners
What are Full Courses?
Full courses offer comprehensive instruction on a subject, often through structured modules, assignments, and assessments. They typically run several hours to weeks.
Pros of Full Courses:
- In-depth understanding of concepts and tools
- Structured progression and knowledge building
- Often includes certification or credentials
Cons:
- Time-intensive and may be harder to complete
- Risk of low engagement if content is too dense or long
Which Format is Better for AI Skills?
It depends on your team’s:
- Experience level: Beginners benefit from full courses; advanced users might prefer microlearning refreshers.
- Role requirements: Leaders may need strategic understanding (best in full courses), while frontline teams can learn tool-specific tasks via microlearning.
- Time availability: Microlearning is easier to adopt during work hours.
Ideal Approach: Combine Both
A hybrid model often works best:
- Use microlearning for onboarding, quick wins, and tool usage
- Use full courses for deeper understanding of AI principles, data handling, or ethics
Example roadmap:
- Week 1: Microlearning on prompt crafting
- Week 2-3: Full course on generative AI in business
- Week 4: Microlearning review with practice quizzes
AI upskilling isn’t one-size-fits-all. Microlearning and full courses both have a place in your team’s learning journey. The key is to align the format with your goals, roles, and pace of change.